Iraq and Iran Join Forces to Probe Drone Attacks on Saudi Oil Pipeline
The recent drone attacks on Saudi Arabia's East-West oil pipeline have sparked a diplomatic effort between Iraq, Iran, and other Gulf Cooperation Council states. According to Iraq's official news agency, Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein and Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi discussed an investigation into the attacks during a call.
The two ministers reviewed measures to prevent further attacks and agreed to form a joint committee to investigate. They also discussed security measures at border crossings and a planned meeting in Oman on Monday involving Iraq, Iran, and GCC states regarding issues related to the Strait of Hormuz.
Baghdad has tightened its security after determining that the pipeline was hit by drones launched from its Maysan province near the border with Iran. Saudi Arabia had initially accused Iraq of launching the attack but later said it would not respond 'at this stage', giving Baghdad time to prevent further attacks while reserving the right to protect its security and sovereignty.